Hybrid Associate Director, Strategic Acquisitions bei Cambridge Investment Research, Inc.

About Us:

Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. stands as one of the nation’s premier independent financial solutions firms, dedicated to empowering independent financial advisors and their clients. At Cambridge, we cultivate an inclusive, dynamic environment that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to excellence, fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

We provide a comprehensive range of flexible solutions across advice, growth, technology, and independence, tailored to meet the unique needs of our advisors. Guided by our core values—integrity, commitment, flexibility, and kindness—we lead with purpose, delivering impactful results for our clients and partners.

At Cambridge, we don’t just adapt to change; we shape it. As innovators, problem solvers, and trailblazers, we are redefining what it means to be independent. We are Cambridge.

Job Summary:

The Associate Director of Strategic Acquisitions plays a key role in supporting and executing the firm’s acquisition strategy within the independent broker-dealer and RIA space. Reporting to the SVP of Strategic Acquisitions, this individual is responsible for sourcing, screening, and managing M&A opportunities while helping lead the seamless integration of acquired firms. The ideal candidate is a relationship-driven, highly organized professional with a deep understanding of the financial services landscape and a passion for strategic growth.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future growth of the company through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. If you're a results-driven professional with a passion for corporate development and creating lasting business value, we encourage you to apply!

Sourcing & Screening M&A Opportunities

• Identify and develop potential acquisition leads in the RIA and broker-dealer space through proactive outreach, referrals, and industry networking

• Evaluate prospective firms by conducting professional screening and initial due diligence to assess alignment with the firm’s strategic goals

• Track and document all activities, meetings, and interactions in the firm’s CRM system

Relationship Management & Business Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers, industry influencers, and financial professionals to support long-term growth opportunities

• Represent the firm at industry conferences and events to promote brand visibility and develop acquisition pipelines

• Host Home Office Visits for acquisition prospects to provide an exceptional, informative experience

Acquisition Integration & Project Management

• Partner with internal teams and acquired firms to facilitate a smooth integration process, ensuring clear communication and execution of onboarding activities

• Serve as a liaison between acquisitions, conversion teams, and key departments to ensure alignment and timely resolution of integration needs

Strategic Execution & Industry Research

• Support the daily execution of the business development strategy and contribute to plans that drive growth, revenue, and market expansion

• Monitor and share industry trends, competitive activity, and relevant market intel with internal stakeholders

CRM & Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate acquisition records in CRM, including notes, documentation, lead tracking, and follow-up actions

• Prepare reports and updates for leadership related to pipeline status, integration milestones, and strategic insights

The ideal candidate would possess an intermediate level of experience, typically around 5 or more years, with Mergers & Aquisitions (M&A), corporate development, recruiting, and/or business strategy within the financial services industry.

Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Series 7 or 99 is required if not already obtained.

Compensation: $75,000-$95,000 Salary plus incentive compensation based on successful completion of acquisitions. This range is a good faith estimate of the compensation to be offered for this position based on the ideal candidate’s qualifications, the Company’s operational needs, and other considerations permitted by law. The actual pay offered to a specific candidate may vary above or below the stated range.

Benefits: Cambridge has competitive benefits and promotes a work/life balance to encourage individual success. 

• Premium benefit package including medical, vision, dental, life and long-term disability insurance
• Vacation/sick time
• 401K retirement plan with company matching program
• Eleven paid holidays

You can find more details about our comprehensive benefits package here. 

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